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IVT
biopsy tract seeding
Rare complication where cancer cells spread along the needle track created during tissue sampling procedures.
Full Definition
An uncommon but serious complication of percutaneous biopsy procedures where malignant cells from the primary tumor are implanted along the needle trajectory, potentially causing local recurrence or metastatic disease. Biopsy tract seeding is most commonly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma, sarcomas, and mesothelioma. The risk influences biopsy approach selection and may necessitate en bloc resection of the biopsy tract during definitive surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Also called 'needle tract seeding' - both terms are acceptable in surgical literature.
In Context
- "Risk of biopsy tract seeding influenced the decision for surgical rather than percutaneous sampling." — Treatment planning discussion
- "En bloc resection included the previous biopsy tract to prevent seeding complications." — Operative technique description
Also known as
needle tract seeding
tract implantation
Don't confuse with
local recurrence
port site metastases